Influence of biochar on soil available nutrient contents in cropping sequence (Cotton-maize-mowpea) (original) (raw)

INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PLANT SCIENCES

Application of biochar had significantly increased the available N, P and K contents in the post harvest soil of cotton field. However, the effect was increased with corresponding increase in the rate of application of biochar. Significantly highest values were recorded in biochar @ 10 t ha-1 application. Similar trend of direct effect was also registered in the post harvest soil of maize under both the cumulative (continuous application) and residual (one time application) studies. Proving the biochar’s ability in improving the soil physical, physico-chemical and chemical properties even in the succeeding maize crop soil. The application of biochar @ 10 t ha-1 had increased the available N by 5.21 per cent, available P by 8.97 per cent and available K by 8.18 per cent over control. Thus, proving the biochar’s ability to sustain the soil fertility status over long run.